Technical Diving Course Requirements >Please note: Structure of courses may vary slightly in different resorts. 

Technical diving is fast becoming a popular sport with divers looking to go that bit deeper, for that bit longer, in safety. Participating in Technical diving courses can provide exhilarating dives, not open to recreationally trained divers. Silent canyons, deep wrecks and imposing walls can be accessed outside the realm of the usual dive profile.

PADI Tec Rec, BSAC and TDI courses available include; Nitrox, decompression courses, mixed gas courses and rebreather courses.

Dive Courses

Regaldive offer a range of Technical Diving courses to suit your needs, but below is sample of the most popular, as well as an outline of the pre-requisite levels of experience and qualifications required.

We also recommend that divers have a reasonable level of fitness and strength, as some of the kit is heavy!

Technical Diving Course Requirements

PADI Tec Rec

Tec 40 Course

The Tec 40 is the first subdivision of the full PADI Tec Deep. You will learn to how to use decompression software and dive computers to plan and make decompression dives with no more than 10 minutes of total decompression and not deeper than 40 metres / 130 feet. You will use a single cylinder of decompression gas with up to 50% oxygen (EANx50) to add conservatism to the required decompression.

Course Duration - 3 Days

Tec 45 Course

The Tec 45 course picks up where Tec 40 leaves off and takes your training as a Tec diver further and deeper. It is the second sub-course in the full PADI Tec Diver course. You will learn the skills, use of equipment and planning needed to dive to a maximum of 45 metres / 145 feet. You will acquire the knowledge to plan and execute single and repetitive decompression dives using a single stage cylinder of EANx or oxygen to accelerate or add conservatism to the decompression stops.

Course Duration - 3 Days

Tec 50 Course

This course completes your training as an entry-level Tec diver taking you past the limits of recreational diving. During your training you will make actual decompression dives as deep as 50 metres / 165 feet. You will be using enriched air Nitrox and / or oxygen for decompression and use desktop decompression software to create custom dive tables and plan your dives. By the end of the course you will qualify to make technical decompression dives independently.

Course Duration - 3 Days

TDI Programmes

TDI Helitrox Course

The Helitrox course examines the theory, methods and procedures for planned staged decompression diving utilizing Helium in the breathing mixture. The objective of this course is to train divers how to plan and conduct a standard staged decompression dive not exceeding a maximum depth of 45m. No more than 20% helium is permitted in the mix and no less than 21st oxygen.

This can be taught as a standalone course or in combination with Advanced Nitrox.

Prerequisites

• Minimum age: 18 years
• Have a minimum certification of TDI Advanced eanx (or equivalent)
• Show proof of 50 logged open water dives.

Course Duration: Four dives are required, with two dives deeper than 30m. Generally 3 days.

If Advanced Nitrox is taught in conjunction with the Helitrox course only a total of six dives are required. Generally 5 days.

TDI Advanced Trimix

The TDI Advanced Trimix Diver course is the top level of training for open circuit divers wishing to dive to depths as deep as 100 metres / 330 feet utilizing hypoxic levels of oxygen (below 17 percent). This course is perhaps one of the most informative and challenging and upon completion you are among some of the most elite divers.

Prerequisites

• Minimum of 18 years old
• Minimum of 100 logged dives, with more than 25 deeper than 30m
• An existing Extended Range diver or Trimix diver (or equivalent from a different agency)

Course duration: Four dives with a minimum accumulation of 100mins of bottom time. Generally, 5 days.

BSAC Courses

BSAC Evolution & Inspiration CCR

This is the entry level certification course for divers wishing to utilize a Closed Circuit Rebreather (CCR) for air diving. The objective of the course is to train divers in the benefits and hazards and proper procedures of diving a CCR and developing basic CCR diving skills to a maximum of 40m using an air diluents for minimal decompression diving.

Prerequisites

• Minimum of 18 years
• BSAC Sports diver (or equivalent)
• Have a minimum of 50 logged dives
• BSAC advanced nitrox diver (or equivalent)

Course duration: 8 open water lessons with a minimum of 380 minutes. Generally 5 – 6 days.

Regaldive recommend the destinations of Malta or Egypt if divers are travelling from the UK to partake in these courses. Please ask Regaldive for information and quotes on the dive centres that have the facilities to run these courses.

Please note that prices, contents and structure of courses may vary slightly in different resorts.

BSAC stands for the British Sub Aqua Association. It's our main dive association in the UK, and there are BSAC dive clubs all over the country.  

There are also some BSAC dive centres overseas, and it's possible to complete BSAC courses or gain more experience of diving at a BSAC dive centre as part of your holiday with Regaldive in Egypt, Malta, Tobago and Lanzarote.  

What's more, Regaldive is a BSAC Travel Partner which means that BSAC Divers who supply a valid membership number at the time of enquiry, can qualify for a 6% discount on Regaldive package holidays. We even arrange holidays for dive clubs! Read more to find out about our BSAC courses for beginners and qualified divers, and referral courses.

 Why book a BSAC course with us?

• Complete your BSAC training in warmer waters 
• Gain experience on your holiday with an overseas BSAC dive centre 
• Enjoy discounts on your scuba diving holiday 
• Superb incentives on group diving holidays with your dive club 
• Benefit from full ATOL protection on your holiday 

DIVING WITH BSAC DIVE CENTRES OVERSEAS 

Being a BSAC diver does not mean always diving in chilly UK waters. As a BSAC diver, you can explore the world on an underwater adventure with Regaldive! 

For those looking to complete BSAC courses or gain more experience of diving with BSAC in Egypt, we’ve partnered with Pharoah Dive Club in El Quseir. An outstanding destination for training, this award-winning dive resort has a range of excellent shore diving sites available and teaches the full spectrum of BSAC courses, including Ocean Diver, Sport Diver and Dive Leader. 

We also work with Tobago Dive Experience in Tobago, Safari Divers in Lanzarote and Maltaqua in Malta. All are BSAC affiliated, teaching BSAC courses or allowing BSAC divers to gain experience of diving overseas, yet in a familiar environment. 

All our holidays are ATOL bonded, ensuring peace of mind and complete financial protection for BSAC divers. 

Enjoying a dive club holiday

BSAC is the UK's largest dive club with over 30,000 members in over 1,000 branches. Its history goes back over 70 years, and it's recognised as a standard-setter and innovator in the field of sport diving around the world. 

Branch diving trips to overseas venues for diving holidays are increasing all the time, and we're here to help in making your dive club holidays memorable for all the right reasons, offering full financial protection and peace of mind for your dive branch.

Clubs looking to improve the skills of their BSAC divers overseas can complete a range of courses, including open water diver certification at our partner BSAC dive centres.

Alternatively, we can arrange diving holidays for dive club groups to any of our destinations, with a special travel partner discount for BSAC members and attractive benefits for group travel. Speak to our friendly team today on 01353 659999 to start planning your next dive adventure into the underwater world!

Beginner BSAC DIVE COURSEs

BSAC Experience Scuba:

After some training in basic dive skills and learning about dive techniques and equipment, you scuba dive in confined water with a BSAC qualified instructor to make sure you get maximum enjoyment from your first scuba experience and can build confidence. After this course you'll know if diving is the sport for you and if it is, you could then go on to start the BSAC Ocean Diver course.

• Depth: 6 metres
• Duration: 1/2 day

BSAC Ocean Diver:

This course is your first step into the world of scuba diving and will result in a certification that is recognised worldwide. It's a challenging yet fun combination of theory and practical training, where you learn to use your dive kit properly and safely. Once you've completed this course, you really are a diver, and you can join our daily diving trips. BSAC Ocean Divers are qualified to go on dives with similarly qualified divers. 

There are seven classroom lessons, a theory assessment, a swimming assessment, five sheltered water sessions and five open water lessons. A minimum of 120 minutes will be spent underwater.

• Depth: 20 metres
• Duration: four days

BSAC DIVE COURSES for QUALIFIED DIVERS

BSAC Sports Diver:

This 4-day course develops the skills learned in the Ocean Diver course, building greater confidence and knowledge. You will gain skills and experience of diving in several different conditions. On completion, you will be qualified to dive to 20 metres (if you choose to do the post qualification progress dives, the depth is increased to 35 metres) and will have gained knowledge of decompression stop diving. In addition, your abilities to assist other divers and use Nitrox will be developed. 

• Pre-requisite: qualified as BSAC Ocean Diver
• Depth: 20 metres
• Duration: four days

BSAC Dive Leader:

As a BSAC dive leader, you're becoming an expert in your field. You'll be competent in dive leadership & rescue skills and eligible to take BSAC instructor exams (after attending the Instructor Foundation Course). You'll be able to plan and lead dives, manage rescue situations and be qualified to dive to 50 metres after progression. 

• Pre-requisite: qualified as BSAC Sports Diver with 'Depth Experience'
• Depth: 30 metres (but qualified to dive to 50 metres with progression dives)
• Duration to be confirmed with booking

BSAC REFERRAL COURSES

If you've started your BSAC diving course in the UK, you can complete the course overseas in warmer waters as part of your holiday with Regaldive. This is known as a referral course. Please speak to the friendly Regaldive team to discuss your requirements. Don’t forget to bring along your BSAC Qualification Record Book, showing proof of having completed the first part of the course!

The minimum age for most courses is 12 years, with some courses requiring participants to be at least 14 years of age. All participants must complete a Medical Self Declaration form. 

Please note that prices, contents and structure of courses may vary slightly in different dive centres. Certification fees are at your own cost and are payable locally for your chosen course. Loan of dive equipment and loan of manuals is normally included. 

Once you've qualified as a PADI Open Water Diver, the underwater world is literally your oyster. You can advance through the diving system and develop your skills in various speciality areas such as wreck, deep or drift diving. These will not only broaden your enjoyment but will also increase your experience and confidence. Rescue skills can be achieved and developed in the highly acclaimed Rescue Diver Course, particularly recommended for those wishing to take their diving possibilities further. 

For anyone looking to experience a liveaboard, taking the Advanced Open Water course is an essential step. The course will allow you to dive to a maximum depth of 30 metres and take part in all the dives on offer. It's a minimum requirement on many liveaboards. The ability to dive with Nitrox instead of air is highly recommended.

It's easy to further your dive education as part of your holiday with Regaldive in a safe and fun environment. In our opinion, continuing your scuba diving adventure with an Advanced Open Water Diver course is one of the best moves you can make!

Why book your advanced open water course with us?

• Learn additional diving skills specific to your interests
• Be more confident in and around the water
• Gain the qualifications required to enjoy the liveaboards to the full
• Better understand the aquatic world
• Dive where only divers with advanced training can dive

Recommended dive courses for your next diving holiday

Regaldive’s professional partner dive centres offer a range of Advanced diving courses to suit your needs. Below, you'll find our most popular courses to complete as part of your next diving holiday.

These course can be completed in resort before embarking on other adventures, and can even be offered as part of many liveaboard experiences to save time and money. 

Advanced Open Water Course

The Advanced Open Water Course generally allows you to build on your Open Water skills and expand your diving experience. It's the next step on the diving ladder, and a great fun course providing a wide variety of practical experiences.

The Advanced Course generally takes two days and consists of five training dives. A deep dive to 30 metres and a navigation dive are compulsory. Your other three dives are chosen from a range of options on offer at the dive centre or from the liveaboard, including wreck diving, night diving, Nitrox, buoyancy and underwater photography. Equipment is usually, but not always, included as part of the course. 

The theory elements of the Advanced Open Water dives are usually provided electronically to allow the study elements in advance of your dives. Divers wishing to do their Advanced Open Water Course will need to purchase an Advanced Open Water manual or e-learning package in advance. 

Please note that an extra fee may be payable in resort for some of the elective dives. There's a minimum age limit of 12 for the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver. Some Advanced courses also include extra dives, so please check with us for details.

Enriched Air (Nitrox) Diver Course

The Enriched Air Diver course is a short course giving recreational divers the knowledge to plan and execute recreational Nitrox dives. Nitrox is a blend of air with slightly higher oxygen content that increases both your safety and your dive time at optimal depths. It's highly recommended for those looking to complete some more advanced dives, or those looking to enjoy multiple dives each day, for example during a liveaboard diving holiday. 

The Nitrox course is a ‘dry’ course, meaning that it consists of online and classroom study only. You’ll then be able to put your knowledge and skills as part of a normal fun dive The course is an easy addition to a resort based or liveaboard diving holiday, and offered in most locations.

Divers wishing to do their Enriched Air Course will need to purchase the learning materials separately.

OTHER Speciality COURSES TO FURTHER YOUR DIVE EDUCATION

Rescue Diver Course

The rescue diver course allows you to expand your knowledge and experience beyond the recreational. The Rescue Diver course is one of the most rewarding courses because you'll learn to look beyond yourself and consider the safety and well-being of other divers.

Rescue diver students are required to complete five knowledge development segments and the final exam, prepare an emergency assistance plan, demonstrate a number of rescue skills in open water and participate in two rescue scenarios. The course typically last between 3–4 days and is open to qualified Advanced Open Water divers (or equivalent).

Please note that the Emergency First Response (EFR) qualification is required, or proof of other CPR first aid course, within the last two years.

Divers wishing to do their Rescue Diver Course will need to purchase the manual or online training materials from the certification agency.

Divemaster Course

This course is the first step on the professional diving career ladder. The Divemaster course will give you the qualification you need to allow you to work as a Dive Guide. To take part, you must be 18 years or older, have proof of 40 logged dives, and hold both the PADI Advanced Open Water and Rescue Diver qualifications.

The course consists of eight academic sessions and exams, various water and diving skills, rescue evaluation, producing a map of the local training site, emergency assistance plan and practical application.

Please note: Before certification, you need CPR and EFR qualifications and a valid medical certificate within the last 12 months. 

We are happy to answer your questions. Please call 01353 659999 or contact us.

Scuba diving is something that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Special training courses have been developed to introduce youngsters to just how fun and exciting breathing underwater can be! Regaldive offer a range of diving options for children and teenagers from age eight upwards, starting from taster sessions to SSI and Padi Junior Open Water diver qualifications.

With years of experience arranging safe, enjoyable scuba diving holidays, and highly professional dive centre partners around the world, you can be sure your little ones will be in safe hands learning to dive on a Regaldive holiday. 

Holidays can also be tailored to your needs, providing a mix of experiences for you and your family in and out of the water. 

WHY BOOK A Family Diving HOLIDAY WITH US?

• Over 30 years of experience arranging learn to dive holidays 
• Carefully selected range of partner dive centres 
• Highly professional tuition standards 
• Diving options for all the family 
• Tailormade itineraries with mix of experiences for all 
• Benefit from 100% ATOL Protection on your holiday 

BUBBLEMAKER COURSE FOR AGES 8–11 YEARS

The Bubblemaker programme is a fantastic introduction to the thrill of breathing underwater. With a qualified instructor and in the confines of a pool or safe, shallow area, your child can take their first exciting plunge. The course lasts for 1–2 hours, including a short theory section and a pool session. Equipment hire is usually included.

DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING COURSE FOR AGES 10 AND OVER

This 1-day course allows kids to experience the thrill of diving, under the supervision of a qualified instructor. Discover Scuba Diving includes one pool session and one open water dive, and counts towards an Open Water qualification. The training will teach some basic scuba skills and concepts, with the option to continue with further courses. Equipment hire is usually included.

JUNIOR OPEN WATER Diver FOR AGES 10 AND OVER

This is your child’s passport to the amazing underwater world! The Junior Open Water diver course follows exactly the same format as the adult equivalent. The course duration is four to five days, consisting of five theory and five pool dives plus four open water dives. This course will teach children a range of skills, which will enable them to dive in a safe and enjoyable environment.

Once qualified, children aged 10–12 years old must dive with a certified parent, guardian or instructor. The maximum depth to which youngsters can dive is specified as 12 metres for 10-11 year olds and 18 metres for 12-15 year olds. At 15 years old, juniors can further their dive training and upgrade to adult Open Water diver certification by applying for a new card.

Loan of equipment is usually included. Please note that all those taking the Junior Open Water course will need to purchase an Open Water manual.

It's also possible for children to take the e-learning version of the Open Water course, or the Open Water Referral course. Find out more about our learn to dive courses.

Please note: Prices, contents and structure of courses may vary slightly in different resorts.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD PLACE FOR FAMILIES AND JUNIOR DIVERS

While most accredited dive centres will happily teach junior diving courses, we know that there are particular requirements that ensure maximum enjoyment for all. 

While the diving course can be quite immersive (pun intended), choosing a hotel or location that has other facilities that kids and families will enjoy can be a big plus. Swimming pools and other activities for kids and families can really add to the experience. Many larger hotels in Egypt put on daily activity sessions for children to enjoy, and sometimes evening entertainment too. 

Proper classrooms and diver friendly pools in which to practice skills is also very important, ensuring the time spent learning is quality time without distractions. 

Suitable dive sites are arguably even more beneficial for children than for adults learning to dive, with calm seas, clear water and a lack of strong currents really aiding the enjoyment and learning process. This ensures kids absolutely love their scuba diving experience and can focus fully on getting to grips with the skills and building their confidence. 

Finally, top quality dive centres with experienced instructors and well maintained facilities and equipment are key. At Regaldive, we only work with the best dive centres, giving you peace of mind that you'll have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding experience from beginning to end. 

Learn more about our recommended destinations to learn to dive or contact our friendly team for a chat on 01353 659999.

Learn TO Dive with Regaldive!

Scuba diving is your passport to a fascinating world of exotic marine life, fantastic coral reefs, incredible wrecks, mysterious underwater caves and so much more … Explore the world underwater! Diving is a fantastic experience that will add a whole new dimension to your travels. The oceans make up over 70% of our planet – so why restrict your holiday options to 30% of the world?

Take your first breaths underwater on a Regaldive holiday, and we're sure that you'll be hooked on diving for life!

Why Book a Learn to dive holiday with us?

• Over 30 years’ experience 
• Your ticket to a lifetime of adventure 
• Qualify to dive with a buddy or dive guide 
• Benefit from our carefully chosen range of professional dive centres 
• Regaldive Learn to Dive Guarantee! 
• 100% financial protection 

Learn to Dive Guarantee 

You can't lose! We're so confident you'll love diving, we'll give you your money back if you don't! If, after the first day of tuition, you find that diving isn't for you and decide not to continue the course, Regaldive will refund your course fees, and you can continue to enjoy the rest of your holiday. No refunds can be given after the first day.

The Learn to Dive Guarantee is available with Emperor Divers, Orca Dive Clubs and Divers' Lodge in the Red Sea for the SSI & PADI Open Water Diver course.

BEST PLACES TO LEARN TO SCUBA DIVE 

It's possible to learn to dive in most dive locations around the world, and all our dive centre partners are highly professional, teaching courses from globally recognised training agencies such as PADI or SSI. 

If you're planning a holiday with the purpose to become a certified scuba diver, here are our top recommendations.

RED SEA 

The clear waters and beautiful coral reefs of Egypt’s Red Sea are one of the best places to get your scuba diving certification. Just five hours flight from the UK or Europe, Egypt brings guaranteed sunshine, a huge range of accommodation options and excellent value. Dive centres are very professional and experienced with new divers, while the dive locations bring ideal conditions to learn to dive. The marine life in Egypt is outstanding, meaning you're likely to have some wonderful sightings while learning to dive! 

THAILAND 

One of the most beautiful countries in South-east Asia, there's more to Thailand than the beautiful islands, wonderful food and the friendly locals. Her warm tropical waters hide coral reefs and fascinating marine life that all levels of diver can enjoy, even beginners! Excellent dive centres will guide you through your Open Water certification step by step, teaching you all the skills you need to become a proficient and safe diver.

MEXICO 

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula has so much to offer, from wonderful beaches to fascinating Mayan history. This region is also an excellent place to learn to dive, with great visibility and easy dive sites suitable for learning to dive. Excellent accommodation options and experienced, professional dive centres add to the appeal. 

MALDIVES 

While learning to dive in the Maldives can be more expensive than other destinations, these picture-perfect islands and atolls will always be a popular choice for those looking to learn to dive in style. Many islands have house reefs, allowing you to walk right from the beach into a great dive site. Perfect for beginner divers! 

GRENADA 

With beautiful weather throughout the year, the little island of Grenada is one of many excellent options in the Caribbean to learn to dive. This colourful, friendly island with direct connections to the UK offers ideal conditions for learning to dive and highly professional dive centres. Once qualified, you may even get to dive on a wreck or in an underwater sculpture park! 

MALTA & GOZO 

Those looking to learn to dive on a smaller budget will find everything they need on the twin islands of Malta & Gozo in the southern Mediterranean. Experienced and professional instructors will guide you through your diving course, while the beautiful underwater topography will give you a flavour of some of the experiences awaiting you once you are a qualified diver! 

learn to dive Options

We offer several dive courses - Open Water Course, Discover Scuba Diver & Scuba Diver.

THE OPEN WATER COURSE – YOUR TICKET TO ADVENTURE!

This is your passport to the amazing underwater world, and an incredible experience for your next holiday! Once completed, your internationally recognised certification allows you to start diving with any qualified diver to a maximum of 18 metres.  

There are three options available to you to complete this course: 

Learn in resort

This is the traditional version of the Open Water course. The course duration is approximately three to four days, as we understand that each individual learns at a different pace and that some skills and techniques may take a little more practice to reach a comfortable and confident level.   

The course consists of five theory sessions and five pool training sessions, plus four open water dives. This course will teach you a range of skills, which will enable you to dive in a safe and enjoyable environment as a buddy pair. Equipment is usually included for the course duration. 

E-learning

Many dive centres also offer an e-learning version of the Open Water course, and this has become a popular way to learn to dive. 

In this version, you complete the theory elements of the course online, before your holiday, and at your own pace. This is done via a well-structured online course, including training videos and opportunities to check what you have learnt. 

The practical elements of the course are done on your holiday and can generally be completed within two days. This gives you more time on your holiday to make some fun dives and cement your skills, or enjoy other activities. 

Referral courses

The third option is a referral course. This option involves completing the theory and pool sessions with a local dive centre in the UK, receiving a referral certificate. The ocean dives are then completed while on holiday with another dive centre to complete the course. 

It's another great way to free up time to enjoy more dives or experiences on your holiday. It's important that both dive centres provide courses with the same certification agency, however; something the friendly Regaldive team are happy to guide you through. 

Please note that all those taking the Open Water course will need to purchase an Open Water manual or e-learning training materials. 

Other introductory course options

Discover Scuba Diver

This one day course lets you experience the thrill of diving under the supervision of a qualified instructor. The Discover Scuba Diving course generally includes one pool session and one open water dive, and counts towards an Open Water qualification. The dive training will teach you some basic diving concepts and skills, with the option to continue with further courses. Equipment is usually included.

Scuba Diver

Perfect for holiday divers or people who only plan to dive a couple of times a year. This is a 2-day course with three theory sessions, three pool sessions and two open water dives. Throughout the course, you learn the fundamentals of scuba diving, including dive techniques and the equipment you use. Once completed, it qualifies you to dive to 12 metres with a Divemaster. This course can follow on from a Discover Scuba Diving course and be followed by further dive training, within one year, to achieve full Open Water diver certification. Equipment is usually included.

Please note: Prices, contents and structure of courses may vary slightly in different resorts. 

Which Is The Best Course For Me?

There are several ways of starting out. All the courses we offer are integrated so that every bit counts towards your next qualification. This means you can learn at your own pace and fit it in with your timescale and budget. You can even start before you go on holiday!

How Fit Do I Have To Be To Learn To Dive?

Diving is an exciting sport, but you don't have to be an Olympic athlete to take part. People of all ages, shapes and sizes can dive! For safety, you should be able to swim 200m unaided and be confident in the water. There's a health checklist you should consult before deciding to take the plunge. Contact us for more details.

PRE-BOOK FOR BEST VALUE

We recommend that you pre-book your dive course as part of your holiday package. This guarantees the best price for you and secures your place. If you're unsure about which course to sign up for, then our reservations team will be happy to advise you - contact us to find out more.

Who Will Teach Me To Dive?

Both PADI (Professional Association of Dive Instructors) and SSI (Scuba Schools Internation) are internationally recognised organisations which coordinate training. All the dive centres and schools used by Regaldive are PADI or SSI accredited and operate to the same professional standards. Many of our centres are PADI 5 Star Career Development Centres and are award-winners in their field. Some of our training partners also offer courses from the courses from the British Sub-Aqua Club (BSAC) or RAID (Rebreather Association of International Divers).

Get more from your next holiday and embark on a totally new experience - learn to dive or take a scuba dive course with Regaldive! 

With over 30 years’ experience, booking a diving course as part of your holiday package ensures ultimate peace of mind. All the Red Sea and worldwide dive centres we feature have been carefully chosen for the excellent standards of training and facilities, ensuring the best attention at all times.

The Open Water course is your ultimate ticket to adventure, giving you the skills you need to experience scuba diving with a buddy or guide anywhere in the world! Options are also available to try diving for the first time on your holiday, or further your diving education with more advanced dive courses – all in a fun and safe environment.

Why book a Dive course holiday with us

• Benefit from over 30 years’ experience arranging diving holidays 
• Trust in professional, carefully selected partner dive centres 
• Enjoy the highest standards of tuition 
• Options available from beginner through to more advanced courses 
• Enjoy learning as a family, group of friends or dive club 
• Book with 100% financial protection 

Recommended destinations to complete a scuba diving course on your holiday  

The Red Sea is an ideal place to embark on any diving course as it offers superb weather conditions, award-winning dive schools and great value for diving courses and packages. The perfect combination for any diver!  

We also offer a range of courses in other destinations around the world. From the turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the bustling coral reefs of South-east Asia, there are lots of choices to gain your Open Water certification or complete a scuba dive course as part of your holiday. Find out more about our recommended destinations with our helpful guide or speak to our friendly team on 01353 659999.

What diving courses can I complete on my diving holiday with Regaldive? 

At Regaldive, we offer a comprehensive range of diving courses for divers of all levels. Beginners wishing to Learn to Dive can choose from a number of options, whilst qualified divers can develop their skills on a variety of onward courses. Getting your Advanced Open Water Diver course is highly recommended before embarking on a first liveaboard adventure. A range of other BSAC Courses, Junior Diving or Technical Diving Courses options are also available.

Our experienced team can help you with a holiday for your family including diving, a group of friends or even your local dive club, tailoring the itinerary to your precise requirements. Contact us to kickstart your new life as a qualified scuba diver, or expand your diving knowledge and skills!

Self Drive Arabian Adventure (4 days)

Day 1 - Sumail Gap to Nizwa

Self drive through the Sumail Gap to the interior of Oman... In Nizwa, stay 2 nights at the Golden Tulip Hotel. 

Day 2 - Visit Nizwa Fort and Jebel Shams viewpoint

Spend a full day exploring some of the many highlights of Nizwa and the surrounding area. Begin in Nizwa itself, visiting the traditional goat market and modern souk; traders bring their goats from around the surrounding area in a timeless tradition, offering a unique insight into traditional Omani life. Continue onto the 17th century fort, built to guard the Sumail Gap during the struggle between the Sultan and the radical Imams. Nizwa was the center of Imam resistance right up until the 1950s when the Sultan had to call upon the help of the British to quell the rebels. Heading north, travel through the mountains, passing the dramatic craggy peaks of the Jebel Akhdar (‘Green Mountain’) range, the highest mountain range in Oman. Despite its desolate and barren nature, small settlements cling to the plateau areas, nestling in the lunar like landscape. For thousands of years self-sufficient oases have flourished in the folds of rocks, using an ancient irrigation system known as falaj. These are water channels that never dry up, often contoured round wadis or tunneled through the cliffs in order to tap the water table. Upkeep of the life-giving falaj is a community responsibility and contributes to maintaining harmony within a village. Stop en route to view the Al Hamra mountain range; at 3,000m, Jebel Shams (Mountain of the Sun) is the highest peak in Oman. Along the track to the summit of Jebel Shams, encounter an astonishing view down a sheer drop of 1000m to the bottom of the ‘Grand Canyon’, Oman’s very own (and equally spectacular) version of its American counterpart; at the bottom of this vast void, a wadi winds peacefully through the landscape. According to one theory, the canyon was once a huge cave and evidence of fossils and shells suggests that the canyon base was at one time covered by a shallow sea.

Day 3 - Drive via Wadi Bani Awf to Muscat

The route back to Muscat is through the stunning Wadi Bani Awf. Leave the smooth roads behind, and head into a narrow canyon with steep sided cliffs. The palm trees, scattered dwellings and interrupted streams create a peaceful atmosphere, where you can stop for a short walk before heading back to Muscat.

Day 4 - Return to the UK

Fly back to the UK.

* Sample price indication based on 2 sharing and subject to change.

Buddha’s Island 7night / 8 day

Day 1-Drive to Wilpattu National Park
From the airport we drive to Wilpattu National Park. Despite Wilpattu's location in Sri Lanka's dry zone, it boasts nearly 60 lakes and is renowned for leopard, elephant and sambar deer sightings. This afternoon you will go on a full day jeep safari in the hope of spotting the elusive leopard. Overnight hotel. (Dinner and breakfast)

Day 2 - Visit Dambulla en route to Sigiriya
After breakfast we drive to Dambulla, where a great series of caves have been turned into temples (dating from the 1st century BC). We will visit five separate caves, which contain a large number of Buddha images and a few sculptures of Hindu Gods. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is visited by crowds of worshippers. Afterwards we continue to Sigiriya. Overnight at hotel. (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 3 – Visit Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa
A morning climb brings us up to the redoubtable Sky Fortress. The ruins of this fifth century fortress are one of Sri Lanka’s major attractions, a stupendous sight to behold and a feat of consummate engineering skill. A switchback series of steps and steel stairways (sometimes steep and challenging) ascend to the top.

Halfway up, tucked beneath a sheltering overhang of rock, are the famous frescoes - the Sigiriya Damsels, their colours still glowing. Magnificent views can be enjoyed from the summit of the rock palace (200m high). In the afternoon we explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which reached its height of glory in the 12th century. The city still has many interesting and spectacular buildings and monuments. There is the Royal Palace Group with its Audience Hall, Bathing Pool and Quadrangle - a very compact collection of ruins.

Close by is the Circular Relic House, a curious round structure with a beautifully preserved ‘moonstone’ carved at the foot of a flight of steps. Another famous feature of the deserted city is the group of carved images of the Buddha known as Galvihara. Here there are four colossal figures, all of which are hewn out of solid granite. The Reclining Buddha is no less than 14m long! Overnight at hotel. (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 4 - Drive to Kandy
After breakfast we drive to the hill capital - Kandy. On the way we stop to visit the woodcarving centre at Naula and a Spice Garden. Finally we reach Kandy where our hotel is situated a short walk from the heart of this lovely mountain town. Lying in the mountains 112km northeast of Colombo, Kandy is, in climatic terms, a world apart due to its altitude of 500m above sea level. The town was captured by the British as late as 1815, and is known more for its cultural and spiritual importance than its history. Buddhists from all over the world come to this delightful old highland town, specifically to visit the Temple of the Tooth, the Dalada Maligawa.

The costly jewelled shrine of the Holy Tooth (said to be Buddha’s left canine) is kept in the upper floor of the original building. This relic was brought from India 1500 years ago and every year, at the time of the August full moon, it is paraded round the town with great pomp and circumstance. During this 10-night festival of Perahera, the Tooth (or a simulacrum) is borne along on a richly caparisoned elephant, surrounded by saffron robed monks and Kandyan dancers. Kandyan dancers can also be seen performing every night at one or two locales around town. This afternoon you’ll visit the temple in time for evening puja. Overnight at hotel (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 5 - Drive through the Hill Country to Nuwara Eliya
This morning we head off across the highlands, through green rolling hills covered in tea plantations, visiting a working tea factory en route to the hill station of Nuwara Eliya. After checking into our hotel we’ll take a tour around this little town, known as ‘Little England”, famous for its lake, golf and race course and well-manicured gardens. Overnight at Hotel Windsor, Nuwara Eliya (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 6 - Train to Bandarawela
After a short drive we then climb aboard the local train and head towards the former British hill station of Bandarawela. This journey is said by many to be one of the world's most scenic train rides as the train winds its way slowly through the stunning vistas of the tea clad hills. Overnight at Bandarawela Hotel, Bandarawela. (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 7 – Drive to Colombo
We take a scenic journey as we descend from the central highlands to the capital, Colombo, situated on the west coast. Proceed on a city tour of Colombo. Colombo is the administrative capital and economic hub of the country and is home to over 1 million people. Colombo is a diverse city due to its history of being colonized by the British, Portuguese and Dutch as well as being a port city along the olden day east-west trade routes. Overnight at Colombo city hotel. (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 8 – After breakfast transfer to airport for return flight

Sri Lanka Sights

Day 1 - Visit Dambulla en route to Sigiriya

From the airport we drive to Dambulla, where a great series of caves have been turned into temples (dating from the 1st century BC). We will visit five separate caves, which contain a large number of Buddha images and a few sculptures of Hindu Gods. This World Heritage Site is visited by crowds of worshippers. Finally we continue to Sigiriya (no meals provided today). Overnight hotel. (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 2 - Visit Polonnaruwa

This morning we explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which reached its height of glory in the 12th century. The city still has many interesting and spectacular buildings and monuments. There is the Royal Palace Group with its Audience Hall, Bathing Pool and Quadrangle - a very compact collection of ruins. Close by is the Circular Relic House, a curious round structure with a beautifully preserved ‘moonstone’ carved at the foot of a flight of steps. Another famous feature of the deserted city is the group of carved images of the Buddha known as Galvihara. Here there are four colossal figures, all of which are hewn out of solid granite. The Reclining Buddha is no less than 14m long! Overnight hotel. (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 3 - Sigiriya; drive to Kandy

A morning climb brings us up to the redoubtable Sky Fortress. The ruins of this 5th century fortress are one of Sri Lanka’s major attractions, a stupendous sight to behold and a feat of consummate engineering skill. A switchback series of steps and steel stairways (sometimes steep and challenging) ascend to the top. Halfway up, tucked beneath a sheltering overhang of rock, are the famous frescoes - the Sigiriya Damsels, their colours still glowing. Magnificent views can be enjoyed from the summit of the rock palace (200m high). On the way to Kandy we stop to visit the woodcarving centre at Naula and a Spice Garden. Finally we reach Kandy where our hotel is situated a short distance from the heart of this lovely mountain town. Overnight hotel. (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 4 - Kandy

Lying in the mountains 112km northeast of Colombo, Kandy is, in climatic terms, a world apart due to its altitude of 500m above sea level. The town was captured by the British as late as 1815, and is known more for its cultural and spiritual importance rather than its history. Buddhists from all over the world come to this delightful old highland town, specifically to visit the Temple of the Tooth, the Dalada Maligawa. The costly jewelled shrine of the Holy Tooth (said to be 3.5cm long by 1cm thick and Buddha’s left canine) is kept in the upper floor of the original building. This relic was brought from India 1,500 years ago and every year, at the time of the August full moon, it is paraded round the town with great pomp and circumstance. During this ten-night festival of Perahera, the Tooth (or a simulacrum) is borne along on a richly caparisoned elephant, surrounded by saffronrobed monks and Kandyan dancers. Kandyan dancers can also be seen performing every night at one or two locales around town. This morning’s sightseeing includes attending the Temple of the Tooth Ceremony and a visit to the Peradeniya Botanical garden. Your afternoon will be free to continue your exploration of this charming mountain town. Overnight hotel. (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 5 - Onto Colombo for your return flight

Return to Colombo for your flight to the UK. Breakfast. 

Sabah Naturewatch

Day 1 - From Sandakan; drive to Sepilok and visit the Orang-utan Sanctuary

Today we make the short drive to Sepilok and the orang-utan sanctuary before continuing onto our jungle resort. Sepilok is home to the largest of the three orang-utan rehabilitation centres in the world. Covering over 4000 hectares of forest, the centre was established in 1964 to rehabilitate captured, injured or abandoned apes. So far about 100 ‘wild men of the forest’ have been brought to the centre, and there has been remarkable success with up to 75% having returned to the jungle. The animals are taught how to make nests and how to survive in their natural habitat. About twenty regularly come to feed though not always at the same time. We plan to visit the centre in time for feeding when, along with the permanent members, pregnant mothers who otherwise live in the jungle, often come to supplement their diet and return after the birth of their young. (Entrance fees for your own account.) Overnight lodge. (Room Only)

Day 2 - Visit Sepilok Orang-utan Sanctuary; drive Sukau

We spend our morning back at Sepilok with free time for taking walks in the jungle or you may wish to take an optional trip to the Rainforest Discovery Center. In the afternoon we drive to Sukau. The freshwater swamp forest around Sukau is home to myriad wildlife such as tree snake and birds such as frogmouth, bulbul and hornbill. Sunset boat trip along the river. 2 nights lodge accommodation. (Half Board)

Day 3 - In Sukau; visit ox-bow lake

Unlike other areas in Sabah, the Kinabatangan River has remained relatively unaffected by the rapacious logging unfortunately so prevalent elsewhere, mainly because the land is permanently waterlogged and there are few commercially valuable trees there. The river meanders through a flood plain and creates many ox-bow lakes making an ideal environment for wildlife viewing. On our cruise, we may see crocodiles warming themselves in the morning sun and some of the other birdlife such as egret, storm’s stork, oriental darter and oriole. We also hope to spot long-nosed proboscis monkeys which converge on tree tops by the river banks to settle for the night. (Full Board)

Day 4 - Drive to Kinabalu National Park via Poring hot springs

Today we head to Kinabalu National Park stopping off at the famous Poring Hot Springs. This is a popular spot with locals who enjoy the hot springs found here. At 450m we are in tropical lowland forest, dense with vegetation and thick bamboo, with a humid misty atmosphere. You can cross a tree top walkway 60m above the forest floor or perhaps you prefer to take a relaxing soak in a hot spring bath, looking out for hornbills, mynah birds and monkeys. The rafflesia grows in the forest - the largest flower in the world, it produces a red bloom over one metre wide which lasts for just one week. Nearby is a butterfly and orchid farm. Overnight lodge. (Half Board)

Day 5 - In Kinabalu National Park; walk to Laban Rata (base camp)

This morning we make an early start. We hope to get a good view of Mt Kinabalu which towers over the jungle below before driving to the park entrance and the starting point of the trail at about 1900m. From now on, leaving our main baggage behind at the lodge but carrying our daypacks, we walk or trek, climbing upwards for 5-6 hours to reach a mountain hostel situated at around 3272m, surrounded by magnificent scenery. The lower part of the trek is through dense tropical vegetation and mist shrouded rainforest with giant ferns and luxuriant mosses, a botanist’s paradise. Rare orchids and pitcher plants abound. Brightly coloured butterflies are everywhere. The hostel at base camp has common facilities, and there is a canteen where you can buy a simple meal. Overnight hostel. (Full Board)

Day 6 - Summit of Mount Kinabalu, return to Park Headquarters and drive to Kota Kinabalu

We rise at 03.00 and trek to the summit for sunrise (about 05.45). We have to walk in the dark and it is necessary to wear warm clothes and gloves, and to carry a torch. The trip to the summit is a hard trek and should only be attempted by those people who are confident about their level of fitness. The view from the top of Mt Kinabalu (4095m) is exceptional as we watch the sun rising over the misty jungle lowlands. For those who don't wish to make the summit ascent, the views from around base-camp will keep you and your camera occupied until we make the descent on foot and then by truck back to the Park Headquarters. We then drive from the park to Kota Kinabalu. Overnight hotel. (Half Board)

Day 7 - Kota Kinabalu

Known locally as KK, Kota Kinabalu is a burgeoning city with a blend of Malays, Europeans and Chinese: the result is a unique mixture of architecture, culture, high technology and ancient traditions. Overnight hotel. (Bed & Breakfast)

Day 8 - Tours ends, return to UK